Unhappy People--100 Words

Being happy.

I’ve been noticing that some people seem naturally happy. They are always smiling. Laughing. Bubbling over with joy. My noticing isn’t scientific. Just observation.

Some people, well, just aren’t ever happy.

Have you noticed that?

They could inherit $45 million and not be happy that it wasn’t $60 million.

They have a job. But, it’s not good enough.

Their children are far from perfect. Their health is less than ideal.

Simply put, they are miserable. No amount of money or jobs or children or health, nothing is going to change it.

Unhappy people make me tired. Really tired.

Exhaustion--100 Words

Exhausted.

That’s where I am. Tired. From the top of my bald head to the dead skin on the bottom of my feet.

No manual labor today. Didn’t dig ditches or lay bricks. Didn’t run a marathon. Didn’t go to the gym or work out.

Exhausted doesn’t have to mean physically. Why do people assume that?

A person can be spiritual exhausted.

Not there either.

Exhausted can also be mental. That’s where I am.

What’s the cause? How about life itself. Job stress. Unemployment. Promises. Broken promises. Interviews. Waiting.

Exhaustion passes. Rest helps. So does prayer. And, time.

I’m waiting.

Tired--100 Words

Tired.

It’s official. I’m tired.

When I told my wife those words, she asked why.

The statement was easy to make. The answer to her question was much more difficult.

I’m tired for many reasons. I’m tired of uncertainty.

I’m tired of feeling out of control of my own future.

I hear some of you—get a grip. Get over it. Grow up.

If those are the best words of wisdom that can be offered, I’d simply say—save the advice for someone else.

Harsh? Maybe so. Pity party? No, not yet. Just feeling tired. Really tired.

It’ll pass. Soon.

Are You Laboring Today?

I’m tired.

Know the feeling? I’m sure you do. Anyone involved in serving God does. God’s work never seems to be finished. There’s always one more person to witness to, minister to, coordinate with, one more deadline to meet, or one more person needing our help.

Without proper balance, this work known as God’s work becomes a burden.

But, I know in my heart that isn’t what God intended for us as Christ followers.

I know that He has more in store for us than burnout, exhaustion, ulcers, and stress.

Paul said it well, “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns” (Phil. 4:6 The Message).

I hope you will join me today in doing just that—giving again to God our concerns. And yes, even our tiredness.

May you have a restful “Labor” Day weekend and worship time!